“When deceit is permitted to masquerade as leadership, and thieves are called strategists, we do not simply lose money—we lose the soul of a nation.”
— Dr. Gloria Kamira
In the long shadows of Uganda’s broken promises and deepening public disillusionment, a new face of betrayal has emerged—Thomas Lapyem Awany. As victim after victim comes forward, a disturbing truth crystallizes: this is not just the case of a lone fraudster. It is the anatomy of unchecked deception operating within the very framework of public trust.
This is not about incompetence. It is about calculated criminality.
This is not simply a man who lied.
He lied. He stole. He vanished.
A Pattern of Predation
In a country where opportunity is limited and desperation is easy to exploit, Thomas Awany has built a strategy around manipulation. From university students to property owners, from Kampala to London, his targets span every demographic—bound together by one thread: vulnerability.
In a recent case, a Ugandan man residing in the United Kingdom was struggling with a tenant who had refused to vacate his property or pay rent. Desperate for help, he turned to someone he believed to be a licensed attorney. That person was Thomas. Confident and well-spoken, he presented himself as a legal professional, convinced the man to pay over UGX 9 million in legal fees, and then vanished without offering any legal service.
No refund. No justice. No trace.
The Gulu Police Station Plot
What might be most alarming is Thomas’s alleged recent scheme to reclaim UGX 5 million currently held at Gulu Police Station as part of an ongoing investigation. Sources indicate that he is attempting to fraudulently pose as a “complainant” in the case, aided by a lawyer previously associated with Kirabira Edison.
Their goal: to manipulate legal procedure and walk away with money that was never his.
This scheme was reportedly intercepted by DPC Afande Karugaba, who flagged the plan for internal review. While this act of diligence is commendable, the case raises an urgent question: If such abuse of process is possible, what remains of law enforcement credibility?
The Weaponization of Trust
Thomas Lapyem Awany has not just stolen money—he has stolen belief.
One young woman recounted how he convinced her to lend him UGX 5 million under the guise of a romantic relationship. The money was never returned. Others tell stories of being promised scholarships supposedly linked to “State House,” complete with official-looking forms and requests for passport photos and transport fees.
In every case, he disappeared after collecting money.
This is not mere fraud. It is the weaponization of aspiration. A deliberate, merciless targeting of those who hoped to build better lives.
Using the General’s Name
Perhaps what makes Thomas’s actions even more insidious is his repeated use of his brother’s identity—Lt. Gen. Charles Otema Awany—to legitimize his schemes. In many of his frauds, victims say he invoked the General’s name to reassure them that they were dealing with someone powerful, connected, and above reproach.
A respected elder in Gulu, who requested anonymity, put it plainly:
“If the General doesn’t denounce this madness, his silence will be remembered far more than Thomas’ theft.”
Uganda at a Crossroads
This case is more than a personal scandal—it’s a mirror reflecting the cracks in our institutions. How many more people will be robbed before decisive action is taken? How many more schemes will be tolerated under the shadow of political names and legal loopholes?
When conmen walk freely, when liars operate with impunity, and when justice becomes a bargaining chip, the very idea of national unity collapses.
This is how countries fall—not always with gunfire, but with silence. With rot. With lies left unchallenged.
A Call to Action
Uganda cannot afford to turn away. If the nation is serious about its war on corruption, the following institutions must act now:
- State House Anti-Corruption Unit
- Uganda Police Force
- Uganda Law Society
- Lt. Gen. Charles Otema Awany
Their responsibility is clear. Public accountability must replace private protection.
To the Public: Speak Up
If you have been a victim of Thomas Lapyem Awany, whether emotionally manipulated, financially defrauded, or legally misled—do not remain silent. Your story matters. Your voice may be the one that prevents another.
Report fraud or misconduct to the Uganda Law Society:
Location: Plot 5A, Acacia Avenue, Kololo
Email: uls@uls.or.ug
Uganda must decide whether it will stand with the truth or remain hostage to deceit. The clock is ticking—and the victims are watching.
